Excellence in Teaching

DR. MICHAEL BRYANT

Dr. Michael Bryant, winner of the 2012 Excellence in Teaching Award, is no stranger
to CSU. Not only has he been a professor in the Religion Department since August 2008,
but he was also an undergraduate here from 1991-1995. After earning a bachelors degree
in History and a minor in Music, Bryant attended Southeastern Baptist Theological
Seminary in Wake Forest, NC, where he received his Masters of Divinity, and then his
PhD in New Testament.

In terms of teaching style, Bryant prefers the traditional lecture, though he thinks
it is important to vary method and approach to include group discussion. Whatever
the approach, Bryant believes in following the basics of good communication which
include simplicity, clarity, a well-structured outline or format, relevance, adjustment,
and hard work. Bryant says, Those who communicate well work hard at trying to communicate
well; they spend a lot of time by themselves studying and preparing. Its not glamorous,
but its absolutely necessary for good communication.

In addition to his educational experience, Dr. Bryant also has a background in the
ministry. He served as a pastor in a Baptist church near Edenton, NC for eight years.
Bryant feels fortunate that he has the opportunity to teach the most important book
ever written: People have always been interested in the Bible and they always will
be. Its a fascinating book that gives wisdom, guidance, comfort, correction, and purpose,
among other things. It explains the way of salvation. It addresses the eternal questions
of life. It makes clear the character and work of Christ. There is no other book like
it.

Bryant enjoys traveling, especially to historical sites, listening to good music,
and spending time with his wife, Amy, and his four children: Abigail, Joseph, Lydia,
and Anna.